R&D Engineer - Food Processing Equipment

Cozzini LLC is a leading manufacturer of capital equipment solutions for the protein processing industry. We are committed to innovation, quality, and sustainability, delivering advanced equipment that improves production efficiency and product performance for customers worldwide.

We are seeking a talented and driven R&D Engineer to join our growing team and contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies within the food processing industry.

The R&D Engineer will play a key role in the design, development, testing, and optimization of new equipment and technologies for protein processing applications. This position will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to bring innovative concepts from development through implementation while supporting continuous improvement initiatives for existing products.

The ideal candidate will have strong engineering knowledge, hands-on problem-solving abilities, and experience working within manufacturing or food processing environments.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct research and evaluate emerging trends and technologies within the protein processing industry
• Design, develop, and improve equipment and systems for food processing applications
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, and Sales teams to support product development and implementation
• Assist in the development and optimization of systems related to:
• Servo and motion design
• Electrical and control system design
• Automation systems
• Belt conveyor and pumping systems
• Vacuum systems and sanitary equipment design
• Meat grinding and mixing systems
• Stainless steel and platform design
• Welding, fabrication, and machining processes
• Safety systems, risk assessments, OSHA compliance, and CE certification
• Low voltage AC motors, NEMA, and IP ratings
• Metric and U.S. engineering standards
• Build, test, and validate prototypes while analyzing system performance and implementing improvements
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing equipment by identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions
• Prepare technical reports, engineering documentation, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
• Support patent research and innovation initiatives as needed
• Stay informed on industry developments, competitor products, and regulatory requirements impacting the food processing sector

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Health Savings Account w/ ER contribution
• Flexible Spending Account w/ ER contribution
• Dental Insurance
• Company Paid Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company Paid Life insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• 401k
• Vision insurance

Cozzini, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE/M/F/Vets/Disabled) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants.
Principals only, please no third parties.   

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in R&D engineering, preferably within food processing or capital equipment manufacturing environments
• Working knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines and technologies outlined within the position overview
• Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD for equipment design and modeling
• Familiarity with USDA, FDA, and other applicable food safety regulations and standards
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel as needed to support equipment installations and customer-related activities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with food processing systems, particularly within the protein processing industry
• Previous experience developing, supporting, or contributing to patent-related projects or innovations
• Experience within capital equipment manufacturing environments